Conflicts Among Drug Traffickers Contribute to Rising Shootings Across Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News1st) - Police say that conflicts among drug traffickers have been a contributing factor to the shootings reported across Sri Lanka in recent times.

Acting Inspector General of Police Attorney Priyantha Weerasuriya said that investigations are ongoing to uncover further details surrounding these incidents.

In recent weeks, shootings have been reported in several locations, including Galle, Dadalla, Meegoda, Yakkala, Maligakanda, Ja-Ela, Wellawa, and Kurunegala.

According to the police, a total of 101 shooting incidents have been recorded this year, resulting in 56 fatalities.

In response to the rising violence, an organized crime control committee has been established under the direction of the acting IGP.

The committee will be chaired by the Senior DIGs in charge of the Western and Southern Provinces.

Other members of the committee include the Commander of the Police Special Task Force, the DIG in charge of the Police Special Branch, the DIG in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department, and 10 DIGs.

Additionally, the committee will include the directors of the Crimes Intelligence Analysis and Prevention Division, Colombo Crime Division, Western Province North and South Crime Divisions, as well as the Crime Divisions of Kalutara, Galle, and Matara.

An officer from the State Intelligence Service is also part of the committee. In total, the committee consists of 20 police officers.